President William Ruto is presiding over Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, where he arrived at 10 am.
As the country marks the national holiday, leaders have paid tribute to independence heroes, Gen Z protesters and ordinary citizens whose sacrifices continue to shape Kenya’s social, political and economic development.
Messages from government officials and political leaders highlighted patriotism, national unity, security, healthcare and public service, with some also recognising the sacrifices made by citizens in the pursuit of democracy and a better future.
The celebrations are being held under the theme “Security, Transport and Sports” and are being jointly hosted by Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties for the first time.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka used the occasion to remember young Kenyans who took part in the June 2024 protests, saying their courage and sacrifices deserved recognition.
“Today, we remember the young people who walked out on June 25, 2024, with nothing but a Kenyan flag, a bottle of water and a phone in their hands,” Kalonzo said.
He also remembered parents whose children did not return home after joining the demonstrations, adding that those who stood up for their constitutional rights would remain heroes.
“Their courage, sacrifice and love for this nation will never be forgotten. They are, and will forever remain, our heroes,” he said.
The June 2024 demonstrations, led largely by young people protesting against the Finance Bill, drew nationwide attention to concerns about taxation, governance and accountability.
Wetang’ula calls for unity and inclusion
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula urged Kenyans to honour not only those who fought for independence but also citizens whose daily contributions sustain communities and drive national development.
He singled out teachers, healthcare workers, security officers, farmers, entrepreneurs, young innovators and ordinary citizens who serve others selflessly as modern-day heroes whose work is vital to Kenya’s progress.
“As we celebrate our heroes, let us remember that the freedoms we enjoy today were hard-won and must never be taken for granted,” Wetang’ula said.
He called on Kenyans to build on the legacy of those who fought for freedom by promoting unity, patriotism, inclusivity and equal opportunities.
The Speaker said the country should strive to build a just and prosperous nation where everyone could live with dignity and aspire to a better future.
Babu Owino celebrates his mother and wife
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino turned the spotlight on his family, celebrating his mother, Doris Owino, and his wife, Fridah Ongili, for their sacrifices and support.
He recounted how his mother sold chang’aa to provide for the family and pay for his education, describing her determination as central to his achievements.
“Mum, every step I take and every milestone I achieve carries a piece of your sacrifice. If I have come this far, it is because you refused to give up on me,” he said.
He also praised his wife for standing by him through difficult moments and supporting their family.
Beyond his family, the MP celebrated parents and young Kenyans who continue to work through hardship to provide for their loved ones.
“Some heroes wear uniforms. Others sacrifice their comfort, dreams and happiness to give their families a better life. Today, we honour you all,” he said.
Wanga remembers Raila Odinga
Homa Bay Governor and Orange Democratic Movement national chair Gladys Wanga paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, crediting his sacrifices and resilience with helping secure the democratic space enjoyed by Kenyans.
Wanga said his legacy should inspire citizens to work towards a stronger nation.
“His lesson endures: as we celebrate the present, let us build a stronger Kenya together, each of us a shujaa in our own way,” she said.
Her message placed emphasis on the contribution of political figures who challenged the status quo and helped shape Kenya’s democratic journey.
Government leaders emphasise security and healthcare
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen called on Kenyans to draw inspiration from those who fought colonial rule and serve the country with dedication and selflessness.
He said the national holiday was an opportunity to recognise citizens committed to making Kenya secure, healthy and progressive.
“Let us draw inspiration from our heroes and heroines and serve our country with greater dedication, patriotism and selflessness,” Murkomen said.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo also highlighted the importance of security, describing it as essential to sports, economic growth and national development.
He said the government remained committed to safeguarding lives and property, upholding the rule of law and strengthening public cooperation.
Omollo called on Kenyans to use the celebrations to renew their commitment to national unity and service.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, meanwhile, emphasised the role of healthcare in building a productive and prosperous society.
He said the Government remained committed to advancing Universal Health Coverage and ensuring Kenyans could access essential health services without financial hardship.
“A healthy nation is the foundation of a productive and prosperous society,” Duale said, adding that accessible and quality healthcare was essential to protecting lives, strengthening families and improving the wellbeing of citizens.
The messages reflected the broad meaning of Mashujaa Day, which honours those who fought for Kenya’s independence as well as individuals whose contributions continue to influence the country’s social, political and economic development.
